The papers in this series summarize a landscape analysis conducted by USAID to better understand how existing evidence can contribute to addressing the SRLA learning questions. Initiated during the developmental stages of the SRLA, the aim of this landscape analysis was to conduct an extemporaneous and iterative examination of how concepts related to selfreliance are discussed in existing international development literature. Learn more about the Paper Series on Capacity and Capacity Strengthening here.

As discussed in Inquiry 2, some authors suggest that the imbalanced power dynamic between development practitioners and local actors can lead to generic statements that local capacity is lacking across the board, rather than assessments that identify specific shortages or skill gaps.